A washing machine is as individual an item as the clothing that you put in it. With so many different labels and stickers
now attached to the machines, it can seem a daunting task, but taking a little time to discover what it is all about will
make buying a machine as easy as a stroll in the park.
Washer or Washer dryer?
First you need to decided on the type of machine you require, this could be based on the space you have available, or just
personal choice. If you do not have the space for a separate dryer, then a washer-dryer could be the machine for you.
Contrary to old wife’s-tails modern washer-dryers are as reliable as their washer counterparts. If you do decided to
purchase a washer and dryer separately, just remember that most manufactures will produce a “stacking kit”. This is
specifically made so that the dryer will sit perfectly on top of the washer.
Top
Type of loading
Front or top loading? This is one of the first decisions. Although top loading washers a few and far between,
there are still a few manufactures producing them.
Front opening washer-
This is the most common found washer, and most people will already have one of these. The front opening washer
can be used in-conjunction with a “stacking kit” so that the dryer can be placed on top. They are also designed
so that they can be placed under a standard kitchen work surface. Spin speeds vary from 600rpm all the way up
to 1800rpm. In recent years the load capacity has also increased dramatically and load sizes of 8kg+ are now
becoming more common.
Top loading washing machine-
These machines are only accessible from the top of the machine and therefore cannot be permanently fixed under a work surface.
They have a smaller load capacity usually 5kg and lower spin speed usually 1000rpm. But are notoriously better at washing.
Load capacity
Load capacity is important as purchasing a machine that is unsuitable for the job, could increase the usage and therefore
will shorten the life of the product. For example a family of 4 will need a larger capacity load than that of a single
person. Below is a guideline for load capacities.
| No. of People |
Recommended capacity |
| Single person |
Less than 4,4 Kg |
| Couple without children |
5 kg - 5.4 kg |
| Family with 2 children |
5.5 kg - 5.9 kg |
| Family with 3-4 children |
6 kg and more |
Washer Dryers
When considering a washer dryer the load capacity must be taken in to consideration as the drying capacity maybe lower
than the wash capacity.
Spin Speed
Spin speed is an important feature of your new washer. It is generally perceived that the faster the spin speed, the more
efficient the machine becomes. This is not entirely correct although it does help. The removal of water from the drum is
also governed by the amount of holes in the drum, so don’t be put off by the slower spin speed machines.
Another point to take into account is the type of spinning:
Fixed Spin Speed
The machine will only spin at the manufacturer's set speed.
Variable Spin Speed
Most machines now are now fitted with variable spin speeds. This is especially useful for delicate items of clothing.
Top
Eurolabel classification.
In order to compare the performances of the various models, we use the Eurolabel, an alphabetical classification
going from A to G. “A” being the top marks the washer can receive. This classification instituted by the European Union,
which makes it possible to evaluate the quality of your washing machine.
| Classification |
Evaluation |
| A |
Optimum |
| B |
Excellent |
| C |
Very good |
| D |
Good |
| E |
Average |
| F |
Lower than Average |
| G |
Poor |
The Classification above is established according to 3 criteria:
- The energy consumption
- The washing quality
- The drying quality
Top
Click here to view our Washing Machine range.
